Who doesn’t love an alfresco meal at the beach or favorite outdoor spot? The mental picture of a beach day or impromptu picnic always presumes that the ground is warm, dry and comfortable. But the reality of sitting on the ground is it is often soggy, sinking and cold with dirt or sand everywhere, including near the food. I have brought a regular blanket, tablecloth or oversized towel all of which tend to get wet when sitting on them. They are also often difficult to clean off all of the dirt or sand, especially if they get wet. Another issue is the wind tends to overturn the blanket unless the corners are anchored, which is something I always forget about until it is too late. These problems are non-issues with the WEIMY Beach Blanket: a sand-resistant blanket that dries quickly and stays put.

Weimy Sand Repellant Lightweight Compact Beach Blanket

SOME FEATURES OF THE WEIMY BEACH BLANKET

SAND REPELLANT
As a kid, we lived near the beach. We frequently packed lunch or got some takeout and walked the sand picking up seashells for awhile before sitting together and having our meal. I remember it being lots of fun, even when it was cold, and I also remember when it was time to get back into my Dad’s sporty little red BMW. There was one rule: no sand in the car, and no tracking sand into the house, ever. So if we couldn’t shake the sand out of some blanket, shoe, or beach pail, then we got air vacuumed off or hosed off at the gas station before going home. We vacuumed a lot of sand off of those beach blankets and shoes.

Fast forward to now and sand still does not come off of most beach blankets very easily. So I was impressed to take this WEIMY beach blanket for a test run on wet sand. It is sand repellant, so the sand is easy to brush and shake off before the blanket is folded back up and packed. No messy sand in the car.

ANCHORED CORNER POCKETS WITH STAKES
Something I especially like about the WEIMY beach blanket is the four anchor pockets and four plastic stakes that are used to keep the blanket securely in place, even if it is windy. The stakes secure the blanket nicely and are easy to ground in the sand or dirt. We find this ideal for fall beach trips. We have this amazingly fresh seafood stand near our local favorite beach spot. Even when the temperatures start to cool down, we enjoy having our seafood feast on the beach, watching the waves roll in. But not just any old blanket, tarp, or towel can be set up our seafood picnic at the beach because the wind at the shore invariably manages to overturn my makeshift surfside picnic. Even in warmer weather, the wind kicks up too much and everything I could use to weight the corners is often already covered in sand. While it is still just chilly enough to enjoy still being outside, a nice way to take a day at the beach, a park, glamping or an impromptu picnic while admiring the fall foliage. The beaches on Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Block Island are almost always too windy to keep a beach blanket in place, so the WEIMY blanket is perfect to tuck into the beach bag for windy island excursions.

Weimy Sand Repellant Lightweight Compact Beach Blanket

HOW TO SECURE THE WEIMY BLANKET WITH THE STAKES
The four yellow stakes have a long hook that hooks into the black loops on the four corners of the blanket. The loops are well-stitched securely onto the blanket and so far have not unraveled even when overstretched a bit. The stakes are secured into the sand very easily. I found them even more secure on a slight inward angle towards the blanket. A child could easily secure the stakes on sand. The stakes go into the ground (warm or cold) very easily as well, I could easily slide the stake into the cooler fall dirt with one hand. If it is very cold ground, in either dirt or grass, the easiest way I found was to put them into the ground about an inch and then press the stakes the rest of the way down with my foot. But a stronger person could easily do it with their hands.

Weimy Sand Repellant Lightweight Compact Beach Blanket

REFOLDING THE WEIMY BEACH BLANKET AND STORING IT
I like that the bag is big enough to accommodate the blanket after I have used it and refolded it. I have several similar items that I can never get the item back into its’ storage bag after it is unfolded, whereas the Weimy blanket fits back into the bag pretty easily.

After cleaning (and drying if needed), store the Weimy blanket back in the drawstring bag. To refold the blanket, fold along the small folds first, then roll it back into the size that fits into the bag.

Weimy Sand Repellant Lightweight Compact Beach Blanket

OTHER USES FOR A WEIMY BEACH BLANKET

STARGAZING
In New England, the uses for a beach blanket within outdoor activities are rarely just limited to summer beach days. Fall foliage walks often include picnics, as well as astronomy club nights held in a few country spots away from the city lights, where the constellations are clearly visible when laying down a blanket for an evening of stargazing and some perhaps some wine and snacks.

LIVE OUTDOOR MUSIC
Going to a summer music series or outdoor concert? Weimy beach blanket stays dry on the ground and provides a convenient food station for friends and family to put their food and drink while enjoying the show and nobody has to place food or drink directly on the ground.

OUTDOOR FORMAL PHOTOSHOOTS
Bridal tip: considering taking the bridal party or first look photos at the beach before the ceremony? I have always wondered how brides and their ladies manage not to get their dresses dirty and their shoes and feet sandy. Instead of risky dress and shoes, discretely secure the Weimy beach blanket underfoot for photo ops to protect gown, train, and shoes.

Weimy Sand Repellant Lightweight Compact Beach Blanket

CONCLUSION
The Weimy blanket is a very versatile, useful blanket for impromptu alfresco picnics, stargazing or going to the beach. The stakes are easy to use and keep the blanket securely in place, and the sand-resistant material helps to keep sand away from food and drink on the blanket as well as makes for easy clean-up. I have stored it in the glove compartment of my car, so I can always have it at the ready for beach days, picnics, outdoor concerts, and stargazing.

I received this product in exchange for my unbiased review and received compensation for my time and effort. However, my experience with the product and the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

In an effort to bring style and beauty to my office, I have started to begrudge the device charging wires that litter my desk during the day. Additionally, I love when form meets function. So I am thrilled to have found the Nunet Natural Bamboo Wireless Charger.

Nunet Natural Bamboo Wireless Charger

The Nunet Natural Bamboo Wireless Charger is a wireless charger for Qi-Enabled smartphones. The Qi (pronounced “chee”) Standard uses Electro-Magnetic Induction to charge the battery of your smartphone. I love this technology because I have had so many cords break on me over time, and they always seem to do so far too soon. I was truly becoming frustrated when I ordered a three pack of brand-name Lightning Cords, and they all frayed at the base within a week! So needless to say, finding a great wireless charger feels like a true luxury!

Nunet Natural Bamboo Wireless Charger

This charger is a delicate and compact device that looks absolutely exquisite on my desk. I tuck the micro-USB cord behind a plant, so the stunning bamboo charger appears more decorative than anything else. It looks more like a luxury phone holder than a charger, but it charges fast and easily! I charged my phone from 50% to 100% in less than an hour. There is a small light on the side that changes from red to green when it is charging, so you have the assurance that your phone is charging without having to check it. Need to use your phone? No problem – pick it up off the charger, and simply return it to the charger when you are done. Much easier than unplugging a cord every time you send a text!

Nunet Natural Bamboo Wireless Charger

The grain on the bamboo is beautiful. I typically prefer darker woods, but the light color only adds to the well-crafted design of the charger.

Using the charger is incredibly simple. Just place your phone on the charger, with the back of the phone on the charger. Since Electro-Magnetic Induction Charging works at short distances, it is best if you take off any case you have on your phone before charging.

If your smartphone isn’t Qi Standard Enabled, don’t fret. It is easy to find a Qi-Enabled receiving pad that you can attach to your phone, and there are also phone cases that are Qi-Enabled (which you would leave on when charging.) Nunet makes some stunning Qi-Enabled cases for the iPhone 6 that are available on Amazon. I already had a Qi-Enabled Case for my iPhone 5, and it works fantastic with this charger. So even if you don’t have a Qi-Enabled smartphone, you can still use this gorgeous and useful wireless charger!

I received this product in exchange for my unbiased review and received compensation for my time and effort. However, my experience with the product and the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

There are a lot of devices and tablets to charge in my house, so our charging cords take a beating, and we frequently have to replace them. Additionally, I dislike having to put my phone in a weird spot in my office because that is the only available plug. Plus, cords aren’t exactly the most attractive piece of technology out there. So, I eagerly started pursuing the world of wireless charging. I’ve seen some nice ones, but when I saw the sleek, futuristic look of the Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger, I was sold.

Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger

The Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger uses the Qi Wireless Charging Standard. It’s quite interesting how it works. You simply put your Qi-Enabled device on the charging pad, and it automatically starts charging. No pairing like with a Bluetooth device, it just automatically starts charging. A blue light appears to let you know that your device is actively charging. If your phone rings when it is charging, you can just take it off the charger and answer it, and then return it to the charger when you are done. With no wires to have to unplug from the phone itself, it is easy and fast!

Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger

The Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger works with any Qi Standard Compatible device. These include the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, Samsung S7, Samsung s7 edge, S6 and other Standard Qi-Enabled Devices. Check the manual that came with your device, I was surprised at how many devices are Qi-Enabled.

I have an iPhone 5, which is not Qi Standard Compatible, but I picked up a Wireless Charging Receiver Case to use with my phone, and it works great. So if you have an iPhone 5 or another iPhone, you can still use the Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger, you’ll just need to find a Qi-Enabled adapter, and there are plenty on the market.

The manual says that the device might get a little warm when charging, but in the hour or so it took my iPhone to charge, it stayed cool the entire time. This is a refreshing change over the endless Lightning Cords that I’ve had to throw out because I was uncomfortable with how hot to the touch they became.

The Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger is quite sleek looking. There is a clear crystal ring around the black charging pad, and a black ring around the pad to keep your device from slipping. It keeps it in place quite well: I was able to move it around my desk several times and it the device didn’t budge. It plugs into a standard USB port, and can certainly be used with a USB power adapter.

Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger

I’m thrilled with this product. It looks fantastic in my office; it keeps my phone handy, and it truly does charge my device fast without overheating. I like products that both look great and make my life easier, and the Wontechmi Fast Wireless Charger is both of those things. Buy it, and you will see how great it is!

I received this product in exchange for my unbiased review and received compensation for my time and effort. However, my experience with the product and the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

ABOUT OIL DIFFUSERS
Oil Diffusers are a quick and easy way to add an aromatherapy element to your at-home spa day, to soothe a stuffy nose or a dry cough, or cleanse the air after cooking. A diffuser can remove pet smell from the house, freshen linens, and infuse the air with warm, inviting scents when guests are coming over.

THE ISLAND MIRACLES OIL DIFFUSER DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
This diffuser is an attractive piece with a fresh, light, modern look. The Island Miracles Oil Diffuser has an attractive leaf pattern that allows the glow of the colored light to show. The light is enough to serve as a nightlight but it not too bright or glaring. There are several colored light shades including green, aqua, yellow, orange, red, magenta-pink, and bright soft white. There is an option for continuous color rotation or to select one color, or no light at all, just the diffuser mode. The plug is hidden in the back of the device to keep the cord out of sight. The design is modern but feminine and suits several decors. It would look good in a kitchen, bath, bedroom or spa services office such as massage therapy or day-spa. There is a well-sized water well that is easy to wipe clean. There is a soft sheen to the sturdy exterior of the device.

Islands Miracle Essential Oil Diffuser

HOW TO USE THE ISLAND MIRACLES OIL DIFFUSER

Fill the diffuser with water to the “MAX FILL” line seen clearly demarked on the inside of the fill receptacle.

Add 3-6 drops of your desired essential oil.

Plug in the diffuser.

The Island Miracles Oil Diffuser is very easy to operate. There is one large, simple button on the front of the diffuser, press it once to turn it on. The colored light will appear and will change from one color to the next.

To select a color, wait until the desired color appears in the rotation, and press the button once.

To run the diffuser without the colored light, lightly press the button for the third time.

To shut the diffuser off, press the button a fourth time.

Diffuser set up is easy, although instructions are included if necessary.

Islands Miracle Essential Oil Diffuser

RESULTS
The Island Treasures Oil Diffuser scents the room very quickly by dispersing the oils into the air with a micro-fine mist of steam moisture. The steam is a fine enough mist to absorb into the air without leaving the room damp, as some humidifiers can do, yet it adds enough moisture to help soothe a dry cough or make a dry room more comfortable. The scent is not overpowering, it just takes a few drops of oil, and the mist is consistent without spurting or leaking. The diffuser is quiet, the only indication that it is on is the optional colored light and the light stream of steam, there is no noise. I like this feature for using the diffuser while trying to get restful sleep.

Islands Miracle Essential Oil Diffuser

POTENTIAL ESSENTIAL OILS TO DIFFUSE AROUND THE HOME
-Lavender Oil, Ylang-Ylang, and citrus oil scents are soothing and helpful for restful sleep, spa-day, or making a long soak in the tub more luxurious.
– Chamomile promotes a stress-free environment
– Peppermint Oil is invigorating, improves mental clarity, and can eliminate the cook odors of fish or other strong food scents. Diffusing Peppermint Oil is also a natural way to deter pests such as bugs and mice without being harmful to children or pets.
– Lemon is a favorite scent that makes the house smell clean and inviting with a fresh scent that is not overpowering
– Eucalyptus Oil is very helpful for congestion due to allergies, colds, or respiratory issues.
– Tea Tree Oil is useful when there is an illness in the house; it is antibacterial and anti-fungal. It can help eliminate airborne virus and bacteria. It is also very helpful for deterring mold and mildew in basements and bathrooms, especially in the shower.
– Lavender, Peppermint, and Frankincense have anti-spasmodic properties that are useful for some people with respiratory issues. If you have known medical issues, consult a doctor

Various other diffusing oils including lemongrass, cinnamon, bergamot and orange, amongst many others, can be used with the Island Miracles Oil Diffuser. Island Miracles also has their own line of Essential Oils that can for use with the diffuser; we will be reviewing the Island Miracles Essential Oils in a future post.

Islands Miracle Essential Oil Diffuser

CONCLUSION: The Island Treasures Oil Diffuser is an attractive piece with a modern floral leaf design. It is sturdy and well-constructed. I really like the silent feature and the easy clean-up. The one button use makes it easy to use and adjust without too much fuss. To me, these are standout features.

Suitable for all-season use, it is particularly useful in dry winters when forced air heat can make a room feel stuffy, and no fresh air reaches the room, making the air feel stale. The diffuser makes a thoughtful gift for someone in a new apartment or dorm.

I received this product in exchange for my unbiased review and received compensation for my time and effort. However, my experience with the product and the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine.

This is a hand blown artisan glass water decanter. It has a vibrant, opaque infusion of color. I chose the blue to match the decor of my office. My office is very arid to forced heat and air conditioning, as well as the environment of the computers and equipment. My eyes and skin feel dry quickly. I got this decanter to remind myself to drink enough water during the day and thought it would be nice to have something stylish on my desk for some artistic flare that coordinates with my office decor, which has accents of cobalt and lapis blue as well as other artisan glass pieces.

Bib&Sola Hand Blown Glass Water Decanter

The decanter itself is heavy enough to not accidentally knock over (as I have accidentally done from time to time with Perrier bottles) yet not so heavy that it is hard to lift. The lip on the mouth makes for easy pouring, and it does not splash

Bib&Sola Hand Blown Glass Water Decanter

It does not come with the drinking glass; those are sold separately. However, plain or coordinating artisan glassware (such as the one I have in the picture) is easy enough to obtain on websites such as Etsy. They are also easy to paint yourself with glass painting kits. There are some bubbles in the colored glass that show it is hand made; they are not imperfections or blemishes.

Bib&Sola Hand Blown Glass Water Decanter

The decanter comes in a gift-worthy white box with company Bib&Sola logo; it is very suitable for gift giving, especially if you know someone’s colors for their kitchen, bar or dining area. At 1.2 liters it is suitable for use when serving dinner to guests as well. If giving as a gift, I might wash it first as it looked much nicer after rinsing it off. There seems to be some residual surface dust that washes off quickly, revealing more beautiful, quality piece.

It is nice to have a clear container on my desk that prompts me to drink the recommended 1.2 Liters a day, and generally, I prefer when my supervisor comes by, to have something more adult and professional on my desk such as this piece instead of plastic bottles that look sloppy.

Makes for a beautiful gift, I believe my photos are true to the color blue, a mid-blue that is not as dark as a lapis.

CONCLUSION: Nice artisan style piece that matches with several decors and is suitable for use in a kitchen, barware, dining room, or office setting.